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Small Office / Home Office In today's fast-paced marketplace, fast and reliable networking isn't an option. There is small office/home office network (SOHO) that meets these needs with low-cost and easy-to-manage network environment. This article explains the concept of SOHO networks, what they bring, what to use them for, what pieces you need, what to do if you encounter any pitfalls when installing, and closing best practices. Lifewire
What is a SOHO Network?
A SOHO network is a LAN that is designed to meet the needs of small businesses and home offices. By design, it links a small number of devices — often PCs, printers, and smartphones — to the Internet and each other, enabling them to share resources and communicate. SOHOs may have either a wired or wireless local area network (LAN) or both.
Advantages of Setting Up a SOHO Network
Cost-Effectiveness
SOHO networks are typically cheaper than enterprise networks. They run on standard consumer hardware, curbing the costs of expensive equipment and professional IT staff.
Installation and Configuration is easy
For small networks, this isn't too hard to do. Most products have very easy to use interfaces and set-up wizards so users do not require expert knowledge.
Flexibility
SOHO networks were designed with expandability and customization in mind. As the practice expands, more and more devices can be added to the network. In addition, network settings can further be customized to fit the specific operational requirements of users.
Ease of Management
It's easy to manage a SOHO network with the user-friendly management interfaces on most networking devices. Remote management, firmware upgrade and security setttings need no extra operation.
SOHO Network Setup Components
SOHO Switch
A network switch connects other devices within the same local area network, enabling them to communicate with one another efficiently. When a SOHO setup, you can just use an unmanaged switch, this will ensure you can just plug and play without needing special configuration.
SOHO Router
The router is the gateway between your local network and the world wide web. It gives devices IP addresses, controls traffic between them, and usually comes with an integrated firewall and security features. Many SOHO routers also incorporate switch and wireless access point functionalities.
Wireless Access Point (WAP)
A WAP increases the distance that the network's wireless signal can travel, allowing wireless devices to connect. Most SOHO routers come with built-in Wi-Fi, but there are definite advantages of adding a stand-alone WAP, especially if you have a larger home or office.
Adapter Card
Adapter cards like Ethernet cards brought the network to devices as they were not network capable by default. They are commonly found in desktop computers to enable wired access.
Wireless Network Card Interface (NIC)
A wireless NIC allows devices to be connected to the network wirelessly. Quite a few of today’s laptops and tablets have wireless NICs integrated into the motherboard, however if you are running on desktop PC, you may need to purchase a card to install or a USB adapter.
SOHO Installation Restrictions on the Network
Environmental Factors
Wireless devices often have blocked signal paths due to walls and furniture which negatively impact wireless performance. Obstructions or any appliances such as laptops or other electronic equipment, microwaves, etc can cause this. Performing a site survey may pinpoint the best spots to place network gear.
Device Limitations
You can only hook up a certain number of devices and push so much traffic over consumer-grade network equipment. When these limits are exceeded, the network can get overwhelmed and performance suffers.
Compatibility Requirements
All networking elements should be compatible. This comprises identical wireless standards (e.g., 802.11ac, 802.11ax), same encryption protocols, and frequency bands. Unmatched devices could fail to connect, or expose the network to security risks.
Final Thoughts
Building a SOHO network can be a good choice for SMBs and home offices that want an affordable and quick network set up. By having a deep understanding of those elements, identifying potential pitfalls and incorporating best practices, users can stitch together a network that fits their business needs and can also accommodate growth.
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